About Larimer County

Larimer County is named after General William Larimer, 1809-1875. He was an early settler of Denver and the county was named after him as a 'thank you'. The Territorial legislature of Colorado named Larimer a county in 1861.

Larimer County is located in north central Colorado. It is the sixth largest county in Colorado based on population. The county extends to the Continental Divide and includes several mountain communities and Rocky Mountain National Park. The County encompasses 2,640 square miles that include some of the finest irrigated farmland in the state, as well as vast stretches of scenic ranch lands, forests and high mountain peaks. Over 50% of Larimer County is publicly owned, most of which is land within Roosevelt National Forest and Rocky Mountain National Park. In addition to these federal lands, Colorado State Parks and Recreation, and Larimer County Parks and Open Spaces combine to provide a wide spectrum of recreational opportunities that are enjoyed by both residents and visitors.

Community Report

The 2013 Larimer County Community Report summarizes how you benefit, directly and indirectly, from the services Larimer County provides as well as how Larimer County gets the most out of available revenues through innovation and efficiencies.

On July 13, 2014, Larimer County received a 2014 'Superior' Award of Excellence for the 2013 Community Report from NACIO, the National Association of County Information Officers. View report »

Map of Larimer County

150th Anniversary

On Nov. 1, 2011, Larimer County celebrated its 150th anniversary. Larimer County was named by the Colorado Territorial Legislature in 1861 as one of the original 17 counties in Colorado. View the anniversary publication featuring the county's history with stories and historical photos.